WHO Rapid Communication: Key Changes to Treatment of MDR/RR-TB

The World Health Organization (WHO) released a rapid communication ahead of updated, more detailed guidelines on treatment of multidrug- and rifampicin-resistant tuberculosis (MDR/RR-TB) later in 2018. These improved guidelines are expected to lead to major improvements in treatment and quality of life of MDR-TB patients. The rapid communication announces a priority ranking for medicines available for treatment. This aims to improve access to more effective drugs in countries that currently have low treatment success rates. WHO also announced the forthcoming establishment of a multi-stakeholder Task Force to support national TB programs through the transition of the improved 2018 guidelines.